In recent years, Sacri Monti has transcended sonic expectations to create a singular sound so unique, their name has become synonymous with invention. Signed to Tee Pee Records, the SoCal five-piece are back to show once again why they are one of the label's leading progressive lights with the release of their third studio album, Retrieval. Formed in 2012 the band has ridden the crest of an enduring wave of unmissable heavy psych bands that have emerged from the San Diego area. So much so that in 2018, Roadburn Festival invited them to take part in a 'San Diego Takeover,' which found the band showcasing their inimitable sound alongside peers such as Arctic, Harsh Toke, Joy and a handful of others. The first single taken from Retrieval also happens to be the opening salvo "Maelstrom;" a whirling 70s prog rock opus that recalls the chugging riff/organ majesty of Machine Head-era Deep Purple, slung with the Space Ritual vibes of Hawkwind. A fine and fitting way to ease listeners into a heady and headbanging assembly of new songs which, like the previous album - 2019's Waiting Room for the Magic Hour - thrives on the art of keeping you guessing. There's no question that Sacri Monti has upped their game on Retrieval.